The Observation Point Trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park and so when we returned to the park this fall, we hiked the 8 mile out and back trail once again.   The trail winds up the lower slopes of Cable Mountain, then crosses into Echo Canyon, following the canyon upstream for 1.2 km.   At that point the trail splits with the right fork crossing the canyon and then climbing to the East Rim while the left forks switchbacks up the steep slickrock slopes of Observation Peak.

All along the trail were wonderful views of the Zion peaks.

 

The upper part of the Observation Point Trail traverses narrow ledges above sheer drop-offs, not easy for those with a  fear of heights.

 

 

From Observation Point, we can see across the canyon to Cathedral Mountain and the West Rim, which we hiked a few days later.

 

 

From previous explorations, I knew we could drop into sections of Echo Canyon so I downclimbed into the slot, put on canyoneering shoes and worked my way through the sinuous canyon, taking photos along the route.  There was some wading to do, but it was never over my waist (but it was cold).

 

 

Working my way through slot canyons is my favorite type of hiking in the southwest.   Echo Canyon is one of the best.

 

 

The action of water during rainstorms carves out the sandstone walls of the canyon

 

The mountain above is reflected in this pool.

 

More Information on the Observation Point Trail can be found in previous posts:

• Observation Point (2012)
• Return to Observation Point (2014)
• East Rim (2014)
• Echo Canyon (2013)
• Hidden Canyon (2013)